According to a Pew Research Center study, caregivers rely heavily on the Internet and technology for information and support. Their research shows approximately 70% of caregivers go online to gather information, and more than half of caregivers participate in an online social activity that is health-related. And, just under 50% of caregivers go online to learn a diagnosis.

Caregivers are also embracing other forms of technology to care for their loved ones. Here are some of those that AARP recommends to family caregivers:

GPS technology

GPS trackers can be attached to a senior’s clothing or be worn on the wrist to pinpoint the senior’s precise location. Some devices can even alert a family caregiver via phone, text, or email when their loved one goes outside of a specific geographical area, such as a yard or neighborhood.

Health tracking tools

There are numerous online tools available to track doctor’s appointments, health records, insurance information, and much more. They provide a single location for caregivers to organize and store health information and prepare for emergencies.

Medication reminders

Technology is being used to set reminders for seniors to take medications or alert a caregiver when a loved one has forgotten to take a prescription.

Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS)

Most people think of the words, “I’ve fallen, and I can’t get up,” when they research PERS devices. A senior wearing a PERS can press a button and be connected to a call center in case of an emergency. Though most PERS are worn only inside the home, some do allow the senior to go mobile.

Software applications and support communities

Plenty of websites and social media groups are available for family caregivers searching for connections and support when they need guidance or encouragement.

Telikin computer

Developed by seniors and caregivers, the Telikin computer is delivered with all of the software fully installed, supports Skype, and provides a program that allows users to share and view photo albums easily.

PCs, laptops, and pads

Increasing amounts of seniors are using technology to communicate with friends and loved ones from a distance. Zoom and FaceTime are just two popular platforms that seniors are using to keep in touch with people outside of the home and avoid the feelings of isolation that often beset adults aging in place.

Wireless home monitoring

These sensor-based systems alert family caregivers of emergencies or when something unusual has happened. For example, if a senior hasn’t left the bathroom for an extended period, it could mean they’ve fallen. The system will then notify the caregiver, allowing them to personally check on their loved one or contact someone near the senior to go to their home.

Family caregivers can’t always be personally present with their loved ones, which is where technology comes in. The devices described above serve a helpful purpose in ensuring a senior is safe.

However, technology can’t be substituted for another person being in the home, and that’s where Seniors Prefer Homecare can help. Our caregivers can be there with your loved one for brief check-in visits, around-the-clock care, and anything in between. Our services include:

We believe that seniors deserve a chance to gracefully age in place, and our mission is to help families in Huntsville and Tuscaloosa do just that.

Give us a call today, and we’ll promptly schedule your FREE in-home assessment to discuss your senior’s needs. We’re here for you 24/7.